This large marble and stucco relief sculpture of the Archangel Raphael and Tobias, created around 1698 by Giovanni Baratta, stands in the Church of Santo Spirito, Florence. It is a fine example of late Baroque religious art, notable for its grace, movement, and emotional warmth.

The scene depicts the moment from the Book of Tobit when the young Tobias is guided on his journey by the Archangel Raphael. Raphael stands to the left, his large, finely detailed wings spreading behind him and his head turned toward Tobias with a calm, guiding expression. His right arm is extended outward in a gesture of reassurance and direction, while his left hand gently rests on Tobias’s shoulder, emphasizing his protective role.

Tobias, a youthful figure dressed in a simple tunic, looks up toward the angel with trust and attention. At his feet is a small dog, a traditional companion in depictions of this story, symbolizing loyalty and companionship. Tobias carries the fish that plays a crucial part in the biblical narrative, tucked under his arm.

The background is filled with delicately carved foliage and trees, adding depth and texture to the composition. The drapery of both figures is highly detailed, the folds flowing naturally and catching light in subtle ways that enhance the sense of movement and realism.

Baratta’s work combines the theatrical expressiveness of the Baroque with a tender, almost intimate human connection between angel and boy. The overall effect is one of serenity, divine guidance, and compassion rendered in elegant sculptural form.